Panther Backer campaign aims to take Hartnell Athletics to next level

Building on a strategic plan developed by coaches, volunteers and Hartnell College Foundation staff, Hartnell Athletics in July 2020 launched a “Panther Backer” fundraising campaign in support of student-athletes and their teams.

Through communications sent by email and mail, the campaign reached about 5,500 athletics alumni and donors, as well as thousands of others who contribute to other foundation efforts

The effort is focused on several areas of greatest need: academic support, equipment, travel, scholarships and recruitment. In the campaign materials, both alumni athletes and current student-athletes shared their experiences relative to these opportunities to give.

Men’s soccer player Noe Vega talked about how a new tutoring center for student-athletes could make a difference for others like him.

“I had a great experience with the Panther Learning Lab,” Vega said. “Tutors there were helpful and friendly, and I was able to comfortably complete my coursework. But they usually close pretty early. I have night classes along with many other athletes, and we don’t have as flexible of a schedule to make it in time to the lab.”

Individuals wishing to contribute to the Panther Backer campaign for Hartnell Athletics can do so by visiting the webpage here or contact Dan Teresa, dean of athletics, at 831-755-6837 or dteresa@hartnell.edu.